If you’re craving bold flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness, you’re in the right place. Welcome to the Birria Bros kitchen, where we’re revealing the secret behind an unforgettable birria feast. This recipe isn’t just juicy—it’s legendary.
Whether you’re making tacos, consommé, or cheesy quesabirria, this dish will make you a true birria bro in no time. Looking for more slow-cooked masterpieces? Check out our barbacoa recipe.
Table of Contents
Why This Birria Recipe Is a Game-Changer
- Deep, rich, authentic flavor
- Slow-cooked to perfection
- Doubles as taco filling, stew, or party platter
- Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
Birria is more than food—it’s a story, a legacy. Birria Bros stands for boldness, brotherhood, and beef done right.
Ingredients
For the Meat
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast or short ribs (bone-in preferred)
- 2 lbs beef oxtail or beef shank
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce
- 4 dried guajillo chiles (seeded)
- 3 dried ancho chiles (seeded)
- 2 dried pasilla chiles (seeded)
- 1 chipotle in adobo
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 white onion, quartered
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Garnish and Assembly
- Corn tortillas
- Chopped white onion
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Diced radish (optional)
How to Make Birria Bros Style Birria
Step 1: Prep and Toast the Chiles
- Remove stems and seeds from all dried chiles.
- Toast chiles in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side until fragrant.
- Transfer to a bowl and soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
- Pat the meat dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large pot.
- Sear beef pieces on all sides until browned. Set aside.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce
- In a blender, combine soaked chiles, onion, garlic, chipotle, and all spices.
- Add 1 cup of soaking water and vinegar.
- Blend until completely smooth.
Step 4: Build the Birria Broth
- In the same pot, return seared meat.
- Pour sauce over the meat and add beef broth, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick.
- Stir gently to combine.
Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat.
- Cook on low for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until meat is tender and shreddable.
Shortcut: Use a slow cooker on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours.
Tips for Perfect Birria Bros Results
Use Bone-In Meat for Richer Flavor
Bones add collagen and depth to your consommé. Short ribs, shank, or oxtail are highly recommended.
Don’t Rush the Simmer
Low heat and time are your best friends. Birria isn’t fast food—it’s food made with patience.
How to Serve Birria Bros Birria
Birria Tacos
- Shred the meat.
- Dip tortillas in the fat layer of the broth.
- Fry in a skillet and add meat and cheese.
- Fold and cook until crispy. Serve with consommé for dipping.
Birria Stew
- Serve the meat and broth in bowls.
- Top with onions, cilantro, lime, and radish.
Birria Quesadillas
- Use flour tortillas, add birria and cheese, and cook on a skillet until golden brown.
Looking for another slow-cooked favorite? Here’s our take on carnitas tacos.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze meat and consommé separately for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Gently simmer on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQ: People Also Ask
What are some fun facts about birria?
Birria originated in Jalisco, Mexico, as a celebratory dish. It’s traditionally made with goat meat and served at weddings or special holidays.
How many hours does birria take?
Birria typically takes 4–6 hours to cook to optimal tenderness, depending on your method. Slow cooking ensures deep, rich flavor.
What makes birria special?
Its unique flavor comes from a blend of dried chiles, spices, and slow cooking. The consommé adds another layer of depth that sets birria apart from other stews.
How do you know when birria is done?
It’s ready when the meat falls apart with a fork and the broth has a rich, reddish-brown color. If you can shred it easily, it’s done.
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- Authentic Chicken Tinga Tacos
- Pork Tamales Made Easy
- How to Make Pickled Red Onions
- Green Chile Enchiladas
Orphan Internal Link Suggestions
Check out our salsa roja guide for the perfect topping.
Don’t miss this Mexican pantry checklist.
Conclusion: Be a Birria Bro
With this Birria Bros recipe in your hands, you’re not just making dinner—you’re making memories. Rich, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition, birria is the kind of dish that brings people together.
Need more dinner inspiration? Browse all our Mexican recipes.